Dining Room Waiter (P&O Cruises)

By /

Essential Requirements:

Essential Requirements

  • Experience:
  • At least 1–2 years of formal waiter experience in a 4- or 5-star hotel, upscale restaurant, or on board a cruise ship.
  • Fine dining or a silver service experience is often preferred.
  • Knowledge of British dining etiquette is a plus since P&O caters primarily to a UK clientele.
  • Skills & Abilities:
  • Excellent customer service skills—friendly, polite, and patient.
  • Ability to carry multiple plates (usually 3–4) and serve with grace.
  • Strong memory and attention to detail, especially for remembering guest preferences and special requests.
  • Good communication skills in English (both spoken and written).
  • Ability to handle complaints professionally and ensure guest satisfaction.
  • Capable of working long hours, often split shifts, in a fast-paced environment.
  • Personal Presentation:
  • Impeccable grooming and hygiene.
  • Must follow the company’s uniform and grooming standards (clean-shaven or well-trimmed beard, neat hairstyle, polished shoes).

Key Responsibilities:

  • Setting up and maintaining the dining room before, during, and after service.
  • Taking and delivering food and beverage orders to guests in a courteous and professional manner.
  • Upselling wines and special dishes when appropriate.
  • Ensuring guest satisfaction—knowing regular guests’ names and preferences.
  • Working closely with the Assistant Waiter and other service team members.
  • Assisting with special events like Captain’s Gala Dinners or Afternoon Tea (P&O has a traditional British service style).
  • Following all health and safety protocols and USPH/UKPH standards (public health compliance is very strict onboard).

Preferred Attributes:

  • Positive attitude and team spirit.
  • Willingness to adapt to different cultures—P&O employs crew from various nationalities.
  • Commitment to contract duration (usually 6–8 months).
  • Ability to handle seasickness or work on rough sea days without performance issues.

Opportunities for Growth:

Many Dining Room Waiters advance to positions like:

  • Head Waiter
  • Restaurant Supervisor
  • Assistant Maitre D’
  • Maitre D’Hotel

Summary:

A Dining Room Waiter for P&O Cruises must combine hospitality tradition with modern service standards. The role requires professionalism, dedication, and a heart for serving people.

Apply Here